With the winter thaw, Bloodroot (Sanguinaria canadensis) is one of the first spring ephemeral of Illinois to emerge. A native to Illinois, it can be found throughout much of the state; however, it is considered generally rare with areas of localized abundance. Bloodroot is a perennial plant found in woodland settings, on flood plains and slopes near streams or ponds.
Sanguinaria canadensis has several common names. The distinctive red sap that exudes from its stems and roots is what prompted the ever-popular common name, Bloodroot. Native Americans would use the sap of this plant as dye for baskets, clothing, and body paint. This gave rise to the common name, Indian paint. Other common names include puccoon and red puccoon.
When Bloodroot first emerges, a single silvery leaf is wrapped protectively around the flower stem. As the plant develops, the flower stem raises above the leaves and opens. The leaves stay wrapped around the base of the flowers stem until the plant is pollinated. Once pollinated, the leaves will unfurl to their full size, but only once pollination has occurred. Each stem produces a single flower. The flowers are brilliantly white, up to 2” across, and usually has eight symmetrically arranged petals (four large petal and four smaller petals). Because Bloodroot spreads forming large colonies, it can easily be spotted during its bloom season which is from early March through May.
The flowers of Bloodroot are more than just darling at which to look. They are secret tiny solar ovens for themselves and visiting insects. Being one of the earliest wildflowers of the spring, there is a high potential for damage caused by our late spring frosts. Heavy frost causes its flower petals to fall off. Without a flower, pollination will not occur. Without pollination, plant development will not occur. Luckily, Bloodroot’s white bowl-shaped, sun-following flowers, which are equipped with reflective petals, is able to create pockets of warmth, warmer than the surrounding air, around their blooms. These mini microenvironments speed the development of pollen, seeds, and fruits, as well as, aid in the survival of the pollinators by giving them a warm place to eat.
